TikTok's Wax Paper Hack To Make Your Clothes Hangers Slide With Ease

It's the cherry on top of a frustrating dessert of setbacks when you're getting ready: you try to slide your hangers across the bar to find an article of clothing, but they keep sticking and grating along the rod. There is nothing more annoying than "sticky" hangers, and if you've experienced this, there's a chance you'd love a solution. Retail workers have a variety of tips and tricks up their sleeves when it comes to clothing, so it's no surprise they have the answer to this common problem. All you need is a little wax paper that you can rub along the rod, and your hangers will slide easier than a forefinger on a smartphone.

Your hanging rod can get sticky for a number of reasons. Rust, wear and tear, or even environmental factors can make it so your hangers don't slide along the surface as easily as they should. While it's not a full-blown crisis, it can be very obnoxious. Keeping the hanging rod clean is one way to try and prevent this, but the wax trend has become a game changer for those who have tried it. Just make sure to purchase wax paper and not parchment, as there is a big difference when it comes to this hack. 

Wax paper to help hangers glide

Whenever you visit a store, the hangers slide seamlessly as you peruse the racks, and it's likely because a clerk has wiped the hanging rod down with wax paper. This kitchen staple is made of porous paper that holds wax both inside the base tissue layer and outside, which it is coated with. The paraffin used is food-safe and works on everything from wood to plastic to metal, meaning anyone with a closet and a need can try this hack. In order to restore your slide-friendly surface, rip off a piece of wax paper and rub it along the length of your hanging rod. Both sides of the paper are typically covered in wax unless otherwise advertised, so you can scrunch, fold, or loop the paper around for the same results.

As you run it along the hanging rod, tiny particles of wax will dislodge from the paper and remain on the metal, wood, or plastic, creating a smooth surface for your hangers to slip on. You can even rub the paper on the actual hangers, too, to ensure everything is coated. Whenever you notice your hangers sticking, rip off a new sheet of wax paper and reapply. No more stick — just pick your fit and go (and don't forget to keep wax paper stocked because it is useful for a variety of other household needs).